About Us
The Banbury Larder was set up in April 2024 to help families, individuals, and the wider community access affordable food, reduce waste, and connect with one another.
It was originally created to support people back into employment. Our founder, Taraji, launched the Larder while running the No Limits programme, helping local people build skills, confidence, and find work. But as the need in Banbury grew, so did the Larder — becoming a place where people not only access affordable food but also feel supported in every area of life.
We are a community-led organisation, founded and run by people who live and work in Banbury. Our aim is simple: to make sure no one in our town goes hungry and to provide a safe, welcoming space for everyone.
At the heart of what we do is tackling food poverty and food waste. Each week, we collect surplus food that would otherwise go to waste and make it available to our members for a small subscription fee. This helps families save money while also reducing the amount of good food that ends up in landfill.
While we are independent and led locally, we work in partnership with SOFEA, who supply surplus food as part of their wider network supporting communities across the region. This partnership allows us to focus on what we do best — supporting Banbury families and helping them thrive.
But we are more than just a food larder. Over the past year, we’ve grown into a vibrant community hub, offering:
- Lunch clubs where people can enjoy a hot meal and company
- Job support sessions to help people back into work
- Well-being activities for all ages
- Events that bring people together and strengthen local ties
How We Help
The Banbury Larder is more than a place to collect affordable food — it’s a community hub where people feel supported, connected, and valued.
Here’s how we serve our community:
01.
— Affordable Food for Families
02.
— Lunch Clubs
03.
— Job Support & Skills Building
04.
— Well-being Activities
We run a variety of well-being sessions — from mindfulness and creative workshops to men’s and women’s groups — supporting mental health, reducing isolation, and encouraging self-care.
05.
— A Place to Belong
Impact Stories
Family Support
The Banbury Larder has been a huge help for my family. With the cost of living going up, it’s made a real difference to our weekly budget. I’ve been able to pick up fresh food and vegetables, and the team are always so kind and welcoming. It’s not just about the food — it’s the sense of community that keeps me coming back every week.
Personal Well-being
I started coming to the Larder when I was going through a tough time. I didn’t just find support — I found people who actually care. Volunteering here has boosted my confidence and given me a reason to get out of the house. The Banbury Larder has truly changed my outlook and helped me reconnect with people again.
Partners
